Hiring a live-in nanny can be a game-changer for busy families, but figuring out fair pay isn’t always straightforward. You might be wondering: How much should I actually pay? The answer depends on where you live, the nanny’s experience, and what the job entails.
In this guide, we’ll break down live-in nanny salaries in 2024, including:
- Average pay rates in different parts of the U.S.
- Key factors that affect earnings (like location and extra duties)
- How live-in pay compares to live-out nannies
- Legal must-knows (overtime, room & board rules, and contracts)
By the end, you’ll know exactly what’s fair—and how to make sure both you and your nanny feel good about the arrangement.
How Much Does a Live-In Nanny Make?
Live-in nannies in the U.S. typically earn $600–$1,200 per week ($31,200–$62,400 per year). But that’s a broad range—here’s what really determines their pay:
- Location: Big cities like New York or San Francisco pay $1,000–$1,800/week, while smaller towns might be closer to $600–$900.
- Experience: A first-time nanny could start at $600/week, while someone with 10+ years might earn $1,200+.
- Extra duties: Cooking, tutoring, or overnight care can add $100–$300/week.
Example: A live-in nanny in Dallas might make $750/week, while the same role in Los Angeles could pay $1,400.
What Factors Affect a Live-In Nanny’s Salary?
Location Matters (A Lot)
Where you live plays a huge role in pay. High-cost areas like NYC or Silicon Valley have higher wages to match living expenses.
- Top-paying cities: $1,200–$1,800/week
- Mid-range areas (Chicago, Seattle): $800–$1,200/week
- Rural towns: $600–$850/week
Tip: Check local nanny job postings to see what others are offering.
Experience & Qualifications
Not all nannies are paid the same. Credentials like CPR training or a teaching degree can bump up pay.
- Entry-level: $600–$800/week
- 5+ years experience: $900–$1,200/week
- Special skills (bilingual, special needs care): +$200/week
Job Responsibilities
Basic childcare is one thing, but if your nanny also:
- Meal preps
- Drives kids to activities
- Helps with homework
…their pay should reflect that.
Live-In vs. Live-Out Nanny Pay: What’s the Difference?
Live-in nannies usually earn 10–20% less than live-out nannies because they get free housing.
Example:
- A live-out nanny in Miami might make $25/hour ($1,000/week).
- A live-in nanny there could make $20/hour but saves $1,500+/month on rent.
Fair? It depends—some nannies prefer the trade-off, while others want higher cash pay.
Do Live-In Nannies Get Benefits? (Besides Salary)
Many families sweeten the deal with perks like:
- Health insurance stipend ($100–$300/month)
- Paid time off (1–2 weeks/year)
- Use of a car for personal errands
- Year-end bonuses
These extras can make a slightly lower salary more appealing.
Legal Considerations for Live-In Nanny Pay
Don’t skip the fine print! Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Minimum wage laws still apply (even for live-in help in most states).
- Overtime pay kicks in after 40 hours/week in many places.
- Room & board deductions are allowed in some states but have strict rules.
Smart move: Draft a clear contract to avoid misunderstandings later.
FAQs
What should I pay my live-in nanny?
Start with $700–$1,200/week, but adjust for your area and their experience. Websites like Care.com or Sittercity can help you compare local rates.
Can I charge my live-in nanny rent?
Technically, some states allow it, but most families don’t. Instead, the lower salary accounts for free housing.
How much do live-out nannies get paid?
They typically earn $18–$30/hour since they cover their own housing.
Do live-in nannies still get paid?
Absolutely! They’re employees, not volunteers, and must be paid at least minimum wage.
